Cody Bellinger’s injury came at the worst possible time for the New York Yankees. The team was already dealing with the absences of Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, but now it has lost another of its top offensive producers just as the trade deadline approaches, forcing team management to quickly figure out how to handle this situation during this crucial part of the season.

The problem for the organization isn’t just replacing a name in the lineup, but making up for a significant loss in production. Judge, Bellinger, and Stanton represented a combination of power, presence in the lineup, and the ability to drive in runs that will be difficult to replace from within the organization for several weeks.

Before his injury, the National League MVP had played in 102 games, posting a slash line of .259/.319/.451, with 11 home runs, 53 RBIs, and an OPS of .770. Although his numbers were far from those of an MVP candidate, he provided above-average production and defensive stability in the outfield.

But the most significant absence remains Aaron Judge. The captain had 17 home runs, 42 walks, and an OPS of .908 before going on the injured list, along with an xwOBA of .415—one of the best marks in the American League, according to Baseball Savant. His impact wasn’t limited to home runs; it also lay in his ability to turn at-bats into offensive opportunities.

Without “The Judge” in the lineup, Aaron Boone’s squad went from being one of MLB’s most dangerous offenses to struggling to score runs. Since his absence, the team has seen a significant drop in offensive production, ranking near the bottom of MLB in batting average, on-base percentage, and wRC+.

On top of that, Giancarlo Stanton has also been unable to provide stability. Although his power numbers remain a threat, he had managed just three home runs in 96 plate appearances, with an OPS of .724, before his latest absence.

Major Leagues Inducted into Cooperstown: Carlos Beltrán, Andruw Jones and Jeff Kent headlined the Class of 2026

Three Names the Yankees Might Consider Before the Trade Deadline

If management decides to make a move, the goal shouldn’t be simply to add depth. The lineup needs a hitter capable of stepping up in the middle of the order and reducing the team’s reliance on Judge, Bellinger, and Stanton to immediately return to their best form.

Byron Buxton

The Minnesota Twins outfielder likely represents the most well-rounded profile for what the Yankees need: power, speed, and elite defense in center field.

Byron Buxton was having one of his best offensive seasons heading into the trade deadline, with 23 home runs and an OPS above .900, proving once again that when he’s healthy, he can be one of the most well-rounded players in MLB.

The problem for the Yankees would be the cost of acquiring him. Minnesota does not seem willing to part ways easily with its star player, and Buxton has a no-trade clause that complicates a potential deal. However, the Central Division team isn’t entirely closed off to listening to offers, so Brian Cashman should make an attractive proposal, as few available players would have such an immediate impact on the Yankees’ lineup.

Seiya Suzuki

The Japanese player appears to be a more realistic option, with an offensive profile that fits perfectly in the Bronx.

Seiya Suzuki has proven to be a hitter capable of consistent production thanks to his combination of power and discipline at the plate. In 2026, he had 18 home runs, 56 RBIs, and an OPS close to .850 before the trade deadline, in addition to maintaining a contact rate and on-base percentage that make him a quality hitter in the middle of the lineup.

His contract situation also makes him an attractive prospect. The Chicago Cubs might consider making moves if they feel they need to strengthen other areas of the roster, and since Suzuki would become a free agent at the end of 2026, his team will likely want to negotiate his contract.

For the Yankees, the advantage would be acquiring a player who would not only help while Judge and Bellinger are out but could also remain a key contributor once the lineup is back to full strength.

George Springer

The Toronto Blue Jays outfielder represents a different option: less long-term potential, but plenty of experience in high-pressure games.

George Springer has a track record as a postseason hitter and knows what it takes to play in demanding markets. Although he is no longer at the peak of his offensive abilities, he still has the ability to produce extra-base hits and provide leadership in a young lineup.

His contract could facilitate a deal, as Toronto might be open to a less demanding trade given that the outfielder is also set to become a free agent in 2027. For the Yankees, he would be a short-term addition while they await the return of their star players.

Can they bet everything on Spencer Jones and Jasson Domínguez?

Spencer Jones' promotion represents an important opportunity to assess the future of the organization, but it also highlights the need to seek outside help.

Jones has interesting tools, especially his power and athletic ability, but he still lacks the experience needed to take on the responsibility of helping replace the combined production of Judge, Bellinger, and Stanton.
In his first 31 MLB appearances this season, he averaged .224 with two home runs and seven RBIs.

Jasson Domínguez can also become a key player, but the Yankees must be careful with their expectations. After overcoming physical problems, ideally the Dominican would be able to regain his rhythm without the pressure of being the team's offensive savior.

The reality is that both can complement a competitive lineup, but asking them to be the primary offensive leaders during the absence of three impact veterans would be too risky a bet.
In this case, the question for the Yankees is not whether Spencer Jones or Jasson Domínguez have talent. Both can be part of the future. The real dilemma is whether a team with championship aspirations can afford to wait weeks, betting that two young players will make up for the simultaneous absence of Judge, Stanton, and Bellinger.

Major Leagues Ronald Acuña Jr. returns to MLB: The defensive armor and the missing piece in Atlanta